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practice management | ergonomics in the workplace |


ergonomics for an


aesthetic office


Steven K. Cordonnier on why investing in the ergonomics of your practice can


lead to business success as well as a long and healthy career


one that is barely surviving. this is why it should be an important component during the design and layout of any examination or procedure room and aesthetic office. it should also be a consideration during any equipment purchases and staff


e healthcare 70 ❚ training.


Unfortunately, ergonomics is often an overlooked area that many times is not given serious attention. When it comes to facilities,


rgonomics plays an extremely vital role in an aesthetic office. it can often mean the difference between a very successful and growing practice and


Benefits of ergonomic principles the benefits of implementing good ergonomic principles in the aesthetic office are many. and these benefits are felt by patients, physicians, and staff. the two most significant benefits of ergonomic principles are that the office and exam rooms will be more comfortable and safe for everyone. these two factors alone can directly influence the quality level of the physician/patient relationship during a visit. Following are the benefits, including


ergonomic principles are just as important for patients as it is for physicians and staff. For patients, the issue is also one of accessibility, which can often be tied to ergonomic principles. When implemented correctly, ergonomic principles can help the healthcare facility owner achieve the highest levels of comfort and safety for patients, physicians, and staff. the foundation for any efficient and successful practice is the level of comfort and safety provided by the facility, especially its exam and procedure rooms.


For patients, the level of comfort can directly


influence their level of anxiety and help ease ‘white-coat syndrome’.


comfort and safety, that can be realized when ergonomic principles are implemented in an aesthetic office.


Comfort comfort is one of those basic human needs, that when met, can help put someone at ease, foster efficient


performance, and help facilitate a pleasant experience. these results are especially important in a healthcare environment. For patients, the level of comfort can


directly influence their level of anxiety and help ease ‘white-coat syndrome.’ meanwhile, physicians need to be comfortable in their environment in order to provide efficient and effective patient care.


March 2011 | prime-journal.com For instance, the inability to easily


maneuver in the examination or procedure room can often cause physicians to alter their work style over time, which can result in repetitive motion injuries. simple comfort considerations in design and equipment can play a significant role in helping physicians conduct a more thorough and accurate exam or procedure and increase the overall satisfaction level of the patient.


Safety it is important that patients and staff feel safe when they are in the office and exam/ procedure room. a safe environment is conducive to a pleasant experience for everyone. if a patient does not feel safe, they may become agitated and decide not to visit this office in the future. staff who do not feel safe may become dissatisfied and decide to look for different employment. and if an accident does occur, a safety concern can quickly lead to a liability issue. For example, with the average age of


patients on the rise, it is more likely that patients may need assistance in accessing an exam or procedure table. in many facilities, the burden falls on staff to lift or assist the patient. this sort of patient/staff interaction has a high potential for serious injury to one or both of the parties


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